Gasherbrum II Expedition

The mighty Gasherbrum II — a climber’s ultimate test.

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Expedition Overview

What is the Gasherbrum II Expedition?

Gasherbrum II stands at 8,035 metres and is the thirteenth highest mountain on Earth. Located in the Karakoram range on the Pakistan-China border in Gilgit-Baltistan, it shares its Base Camp with Gasherbrum I and is often combined with it in a single expedition season. First climbed on 7 July 1956 by Fritz Moravec, Josef Larch, and Hans Willenpart of the Austrian Himalayan Expedition, Gasherbrum II has earned a reputation as one of the more accessible 8,000m peaks in the technically demanding Karakoram. Its Southwest Ridge Route is moderate by Karakoram standards, making it a popular choice for climbers gaining experience in the central Karakoram before tackling more demanding objectives.

AltiPro's Gasherbrum II Expedition 2027 follows the Southwest Ridge Route, the standard line on the mountain. The approach from Islamabad travels via Skardu and Askole, then 4 to 5 days along the Baltoro Glacier to the shared Gasherbrum Base Camp at 5,150m. The team establishes camps at 6,000m (Camp 1), 6,550m (Camp 2), and 7,100m (Camp 3) before the summit push to 8,035m. Maximum 8 climbers, 1:1 guide and Sherpa ratio, supplemental oxygen available from Camp 3, and a Base Camp Doctor throughout the expedition.

While Gasherbrum II is considered more accessible by Karakoram standards, the Southwest Ridge demands solid glacier travel skills, competence on moderate mixed terrain, and sound judgment at altitude above 8,000m. The remote Karakoram location makes logistics and emergency response more demanding than on Nepal's 8,000m peaks. AltiPro recommends prior experience on a high-altitude peak above 7,000m before joining this expedition.

Summit: 8,035 m Southwest Ridge Route Challenging / Difficult Karakoram, Pakistan 42 Days Max 8 Climbers Full Service Summer Season

About Gasherbrum II

About Gasherbrum II — Gateway to the Karakoram 8000ers

Gasherbrum II sits at the head of the South Gasherbrum Glacier, tucked into the inner Karakoram alongside Gasherbrum I, with the colossal K2 visible from Base Camp. The Baltoro Glacier approach from Askole passes directly beside K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums in sequence — a concentration of 8,000m peaks unmatched anywhere on Earth. Concordia, the glacier confluence at the heart of the Karakoram, is considered one of the finest mountain viewpoints in the world.

Sharing a Base Camp with Gasherbrum I makes Gasherbrum II a natural pairing objective. AltiPro offers a combined Gasherbrum I and II expedition for climbers with the experience and ambition to attempt two 8,000m peaks in a single Karakoram season — a logical and efficient way to explore the central Karakoram's greatest peaks.

Why Choose AltiPro

Why Choose AltiPro Adventures for Gasherbrum II?

Karakoram Expedition Management

Gasherbrum II requires Pakistan Alpine Club permits, liaison officer coordination, and full ground logistics from Islamabad via Skardu to Base Camp. AltiPro manages all Pakistan-side permits and logistics from Kathmandu on behalf of the team.

Combined GI & GII Option

AltiPro offers a combined Gasherbrum I and II expedition, taking advantage of the shared Base Camp to allow climbers to attempt both 8,000m peaks in a single Karakoram season with a single Baltoro approach trek.

Supplemental Oxygen from Camp 3

Supplemental oxygen is available from Camp 3 at 7,100m for all climbers. Three cylinders per climber are allocated with dedicated carrier support above Camp 3. Reserve stockpiles are maintained at Camp 3 throughout the summit period.

The Baltoro Glacier Approach

The approach from Askole along the Baltoro Glacier passes directly beside K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums in succession. AltiPro's experienced logistics team manages the 4 to 5 day trek with an established supply chain and porter coordination.

Medical Doctor at Base Camp

An expedition physician with high altitude medicine experience is resident at Base Camp throughout the season. Gamow Bag, pulse oximetry, and satellite emergency communication are standard on all AltiPro Gasherbrum II expeditions.

Small Team Protocol

Eight climbers maximum with a 1:1 support ratio, ensuring personalised attention for each team member and the ability to respond quickly to the unpredictable weather conditions of the Karakoram summer season.

Route & Approach

The Southwest Ridge Route (8,035 m)

The Southwest Ridge is the standard route on Gasherbrum II. The Baltoro Glacier approach from Islamabad via Skardu and Askole is shared with Gasherbrum I and all other central Karakoram expeditions — one of the great high-altitude approach treks of world mountaineering.

Islamabad to Base Camp (500m to 5,150m)

Flight to Skardu, drive to Askole, then 4 to 5 days trekking along the Baltoro Glacier with views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums. The shared Gasherbrum Base Camp sits at 5,150m on the South Gasherbrum Glacier.

Base Camp to Camp 1 (5,150m to 6,000m)

From Base Camp the route climbs via the Southwest Spur to Camp 1 at 6,000m. Multiple acclimatisation rotations are completed here before the team pushes to Camp 2 and above.

Camp 1 to Camp 2 (6,000m to 6,550m)

The route continues up the Southwest Ridge to Camp 2 at 6,550m. The terrain is moderately technical with snow and mixed ground requiring crampons and rope management throughout.

Camp 2 to Camp 3 (6,550m to 7,100m)

The upper Southwest Ridge leads to Camp 3 at 7,100m. This section becomes more exposed and demanding at altitude. Supplemental oxygen begins at Camp 3 for the summit push.

Camp 3 to Summit (7,100m to 8,035m)

The final section follows the upper Southwest Ridge to the summit at 8,035m. Conditions above 8,000m can change rapidly and summit day requires careful weather monitoring. The summit delivers extraordinary views across the central Karakoram — K2, Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak, and the Baltoro glacier system below.

Difficulty

How Difficult is the Gasherbrum II Expedition?

Gasherbrum II is rated Challenging to Difficult — one of the more accessible of all fourteen 8,000m peaks technically, but the remote Karakoram location, the exposed upper ridge, and the physiological demands of altitude above 8,000m make it a serious and committing undertaking. AltiPro recommends prior high-altitude experience above 7,000m for all applicants.

Overall Difficulty

7.5 / 10

Physical Demand

8 / 10

Altitude Challenge

8 / 10

Technical Climbing

7 / 10

Remoteness

9 / 10

Best Season

Best Season for the Gasherbrum II Expedition

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Ideal season Possible Not recommended

Summer (June–July): The primary climbing season on Gasherbrum II, matching the Karakoram weather pattern. Late June through late July provides the most settled conditions above 7,100m. AltiPro targets the July window as the most reliable period for summit conditions.

Why summer: The Karakoram's summer is more stable than spring or autumn due to the range's position north of the main monsoon influence. Spring and early autumn are generally too cold and windy on the upper mountain.

Cost & Packages

Gasherbrum II Expedition Cost

Full-service Gasherbrum II expedition — Karakoram permits, Baltoro approach, oxygen, and medical support included.

Includes all Pakistan Alpine Club permits, liaison officer fees, Skardu flights and ground logistics, high camp equipment, supplemental oxygen from Camp 3 for all climbers, fixed rope service, and a Base Camp Doctor. International flights and personal climbing equipment are not included. Contact AltiPro for a complete cost breakdown.

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FAQs

Gasherbrum II Expedition — Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about climbing Gasherbrum II with AltiPro Adventures.

Is Gasherbrum II a good first Karakoram 8,000m peak?

Yes. Gasherbrum II is widely recommended as an accessible first Karakoram 8,000m objective. Prior experience above 7,000m is recommended, and AltiPro can combine it with Gasherbrum I in a single expedition for more experienced climbers.

What is the Baltoro Glacier approach like?

The approach from Askole passes K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums in succession over 4 to 5 days — one of the most celebrated high-altitude treks in the world, with Concordia at its heart and an extraordinary concentration of 8,000m peaks visible throughout.

Is supplemental oxygen included?

Yes, available from Camp 3 at 7,100m. Three cylinders per climber with dedicated carrier support and reserve stockpiles maintained at Camp 3 throughout the summit period.

When does AltiPro operate Gasherbrum II?

AltiPro targets the late June to late July summer window, the most reliable period for summit conditions in the central Karakoram.

How long is the expedition?

42 days from Islamabad departure to return, including the Baltoro approach trek, all acclimatisation rotations, and the summit attempt.

Can Gasherbrum I and II be combined?

Yes. AltiPro offers a combined GI and GII expedition sharing the same Base Camp and approach, allowing climbers to attempt two 8,000m peaks in a single Karakoram season.

What permits are required?

Pakistan Alpine Club climbing permit, liaison officer, and route fees. AltiPro manages all permit applications from Kathmandu on behalf of the team.

Is there a doctor at Base Camp?

Yes. An expedition physician with high altitude medicine training is resident at Base Camp throughout the season, with Gamow Bag, pulse oximetry, and satellite emergency communication.

Detailed Itinerary

Click on each day to view details

Day	Program	Meals	Accom.
1	Arrival in Islamabad	Dinner	Hotel
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Transfer to 4-star hotel, welcome dinner, and Gasherbrum II Expedition 2027 briefing with AltiPro team.
2	Islamabad — Permit Processing & Briefing	Breakfast	Hotel
Permit processing, Liaison Officer briefing at Alpine Club of Pakistan, gear check, and last-minute shopping.
3	Fly Islamabad → Skardu (2,230m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Hotel
Spectacular low-level flight over Nanga Parbat to Skardu. Check-in to hotel and final Karakoram purchases.
4	Skardu — Rest & Acclimatization (2,230m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Hotel
Rest and acclimatization at 2,230m. Briefing with Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department. Optional hike around Skardu.
5	Skardu — Final Expedition Preparation	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Hotel
Final expedition preparation. Porter hiring and load organization. Equipment transferred to jeeps for the Askole drive.
6	Jeep Drive Skardu → Askole (3,050m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Approx. 6–7 hour jeep drive through the Shigar and Braldu River valleys to Askole — the last village in the Central Karakoram wilderness.
7	Trek Askole → Jhola (3,200m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Follow the Braldu River gorge into the Central Karakoram. Dramatic arid landscape on the first porter carry day.
8	Trek Jhola → Paiju (3,500m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Reach the last green oasis before the Baltoro Glacier. Paiyu Peak (6,610m) towers above camp.
9	Rest Day at Paiju (3,500m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Porter acclimatization and food preparation for the glacier approach. Short acclimatization hike to 3,800m.
10	Trek Paiju → Khoburtse (3,900m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Cross onto the Baltoro Glacier. Trango Towers and Cathedral Peaks visible. First glacier travel day.
11	Trek Khoburtse → Urdukas (4,050m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Spectacular camp perched on the moraine above the Baltoro. First views of the Gasherbrum group emerge to the east.
12	Trek Urdukas → Goro II (4,300m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
The glacial walk intensifies. Broad Peak (8,047m) begins to dominate the northern skyline.
13	Trek Goro II → Concordia (4,650m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
The Throne Room of the Mountain Gods — K2, Broad Peak, G1, and G2 surround you simultaneously in every direction.
14	Trek Concordia → Gasherbrum II Base Camp (5,150m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
5–6 hour crossing of the upper Baltoro Glacier. Arrive into the fully established AltiPro Base Camp.
15	Puja Ceremony & Base Camp Briefing	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Puja ceremony at Gasherbrum II Base Camp. Full route and safety briefing. Oxygen system checks and SpO₂ baseline medical readings.
16	Rest & Acclimatization at Base Camp (5,150m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Short hike toward the Gasherbrum Icefall. Expedition Doctor begins daily SpO₂ monitoring.
17	Rest at Base Camp — Route Fixing Begins	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Rest at Base Camp. Sherpa teams begin route-fixing above BC. Gear organization and high-camp logistics coordinated.
18 – 20	1st Rotation — BC → Camp I (5,900m) → BC	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
First crossing of the Gasherbrum Icefall on fixed ropes. Overnight at Camp I. Icefall hazards assessed by Lead Sherpa. SpO₂ review on return.
21 – 22	Rest at Base Camp — Load Ferrying	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Rest and recovery. Expedition Doctor SpO₂ review. Sherpa teams ferry loads to Camp I.
23 – 25	2nd Rotation — Camp I → Camp II / Gasherbrum La (6,400m) → BC	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
First overnight above 6,000m at the Gasherbrum La. Return to Base Camp. First sustained high-altitude acclimatization.
26 – 28	Full Rest at Base Camp — Route Assessment	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Full rest and medical checks. Route above Camp II assessed. Summit weather pattern closely monitored.
29 – 31	3rd Rotation — Camp II → Camp III (7,200m) → BC	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Overnight on the upper Southwest Ridge in the Death Zone. Individual summit clearance assessed by Expedition Doctor on return to Base Camp.
32 – 34	Full Rest at Base Camp — Summit Window Tracking	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Full rest. Oxygen cache confirmed at all camps. 48-hour summit weather window tracking begins.
35	Summit Bid — BC → Camp I (5,900m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Summit push begins. Pre-dawn Gasherbrum Icefall crossing to Camp I.
36	Summit Bid — Camp I → Camp II / Gasherbrum La (6,400m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Ascend to the Gasherbrum La. Rest and early sleep.
37	Summit Bid — Camp II → Camp III (7,200m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Upper Southwest Ridge to Camp III. Supplemental oxygen activated. Pre-summit briefing with Lead Sherpa.
38	Summit Day — Gasherbrum II (8,035m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Pre-midnight departure from Camp III. Southwest Ridge to summit pyramid, east to Southeast Ridge, summit at 8,035m. Descend to Camp II or Base Camp.
39	Full Descent to Base Camp	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Descend fully to Gasherbrum II Base Camp. Post-summit celebration at the AltiPro Café.
40 – 41	Rest, Recovery & Base Camp Cleanup	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Rest and recovery at Base Camp. Expedition equipment packed and organized for the Baltoro return.
42	Trek Base Camp → Concordia (4,650m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Begin the return journey across the upper Baltoro Glacier to Concordia.
43	Trek Concordia → Goro II (4,300m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Baltoro Glacier traverse. Body begins descending from extreme altitude.
44	Trek Goro II → Urdukas (4,050m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
The Karakoram giants now behind you as the return trek continues.
45	Trek Urdukas → Paiju (3,500m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
Trango Towers one final time. The green oasis of Paiju welcomes the team back.
46	Trek Paiju → Askole (3,050m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Tent
The last trekking day. Porters released and tipped at Askole.
47	Jeep Drive Askole → Skardu (2,230m)	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Hotel
Approx. 6–7 hour jeep drive back to Skardu. Hotel, hot shower, and the first real bed in weeks.
48	Fly Skardu → Islamabad	Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner	Hotel
Fly from Skardu to Islamabad. Transfer to hotel. Rest.
49	Summit Certificate Presentation & Farewell Dinner	Breakfast / Dinner	Hotel
Gasherbrum II summit certificate presentation. Farewell dinner and expedition debrief in Islamabad.
50 – 55	Buffer Days — Weather or Logistics Reserve	Breakfast	Hotel
Reserved buffer for weather delays at Skardu airport, a second summit window, or road disruptions.
56	Final Departure from Islamabad	Breakfast	Hotel
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for international departure.

Services

Includes

✅ Gasherbrum II Expedition Royalty — issued by the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP) and Ministry of Tourism
✅ Mandatory Pakistan Government Liaison Officer for the full expedition duration
✅ Environmental and garbage management deposit fee
✅ Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) entry permit
✅ Pakistan government taxes and AltiPro company service charges
✅ AltiPro rope-fixing contribution to the Gasherbrum Icefall and Southwest Ridge route — no additional charge to members

✅ Airport pick-up and drop for all international flights at Islamabad International Airport
✅ 4 nights 4-star hotel in Islamabad (BB) — 2 nights pre-expedition, 2 nights post-expedition
✅ Welcome dinner and farewell dinner in Islamabad

✅ Domestic flights: Islamabad to Skardu and Skardu to Islamabad (round trip) for all team members and expedition staff
✅ Road transport contingency: Islamabad to Skardu by road via Chilas if flights are cancelled
✅ 2 nights hotel in Skardu (full board) — approach and return
✅ Jeep transport: Skardu to Askole and Askole to Skardu (round trip) for all members and expedition equipment
✅ Porter support: Askole to Gasherbrum II Base Camp and return — all expedition loads
✅ Personal climbing equipment transfer: Islamabad to Gasherbrum II Base Camp and return (60 kg per member)
✅ Full board accommodation at all trek camps from Askole to Base Camp and on the return journey

✅ Full expedition planning, coordination, and on-ground management
✅ Experienced Base Camp Manager and Head Sirdar on-site for the full season
✅ Pre-expedition briefing pack in Islamabad
✅ One walkie-talkie per Climbing Sherpa and Expedition Leader during all climbing phases
✅ Daily professional weather forecast service — 6-hourly Gasherbrum II summit-specific updates throughout
✅ Satellite phone at Gasherbrum II Base Camp for emergency use (minimal per-call charge applies)
✅ Three freshly cooked meals per day (BLD) at Base Camp — continental, Pakistani, and international menu
✅ Fresh vegetables, meat, fruits, and juice restocked throughout the season
✅ Heated dining tent with tables and chairs at Base Camp
✅ AltiPro Café at Base Camp — coffee and bakery items served daily
✅ Private sleeping tent with mattress and pillow for every climber and staff member
✅ Generator for charging electronic devices at Base Camp
✅ Internet service at Base Camp (minimal charge)
✅ Expedition Doctor stationed at Gasherbrum II Base Camp for the full climbing season
✅ Gamow Bag (portable hyperbaric chamber) on standby at Base Camp

✅ Sleeping tents at all high camps — Camps I, II, III (2 members per tent)
✅ High-altitude food at all camps: muesli, porridge, noodles, rice, soups, dry fruits, chocolate, and energy snacks
✅ MSR stoves, cooking sets, EPI gas, shovels, and extra ropes at all high camps
✅ Common climbing equipment: fixed ropes, ice screws, snow pickets, and anchoring hardware for the full Southwest Ridge route

✅ One dedicated Climbing Sherpa per climber — 1:1 ratio, guaranteed from Base Camp to summit and back
✅ All Climbing Sherpa, cook, kitchen helper, and Liaison Officer wages, allowances, and per diems
✅ Insurance for all Climbing Sherpas, cooks, Liaison Officer, and local porters
✅ Backup Sherpas on standby for substitution if required (extra charge if deployed)

✅ 3 oxygen cylinders (4-litre) per climber with personally fitted summit mask and regulator set
✅ 2 oxygen cylinders (4-litre) per Climbing Sherpa with mask and regulator
✅ Emergency backup oxygen pre-positioned at Camp II and Camp III before the summit push begins
✅ Expedition Doctor SpO₂ monitoring throughout the full expedition season

✅ Helicopter rescue standby pre-arranged from Skardu before expedition departure
✅ Emergency evacuation coordination with Pakistan Army and local authorities
✅ Puja ceremony at Gasherbrum II Base Camp before climbing begins
✅ AltiPro expedition T-shirt and Gasherbrum II summit certificate

Excludes

❌ International flight tickets to and from your home country
❌ Pakistan entry visa fee — obtainable in advance or on arrival depending on nationality
❌ Personal climbing gear, clothing, boots, and high-altitude equipment
❌ Personal satellite messenger device (Garmin inReach or similar)
❌ Meals in Islamabad and Skardu except the included welcome and farewell dinners
❌ Personal expenses: drinks, laundry, telephone, and Wi-Fi at hotels and lodges

❌ Travel, medical, and high-altitude helicopter rescue insurance (minimum USD 100,000) — mandatory for all participants. Must cover evacuation from 8,000m+ altitude in Pakistan.

❌ Summit bonus: USD 2,000 per Climbing Sherpa and USD 500 for kitchen helpers — payable in cash at Base Camp after a successful Gasherbrum II summit
❌ Tips for trekking guides, high-altitude porters, and kitchen staff

❌ Extra costs due to personal baggage exceeding 60 kg
❌ Drone and special filming permit fees
❌ Satellite phone personal use beyond emergency allocation
❌ Costs incurred due to domestic flight cancellations, road disruptions, or political situations
❌ Additional oxygen cylinders beyond the allocated supply (available at cost if required)